Left to right: Suzanne Richards, Nancy Maglio, Janet Jensen, Rich Jensen
Evelyn Wiltshire
Every sport has at least one “we learned this the hard way” rule, created to uphold the true spirit of the game. Baseball’s Infield Fly Rule prevents infielders from intentionally dropping an easy pop-up to force multiple outs. In football, the Fair Catch Rule protects the returner after signaling for a fair catch.
The underlying goal of these rules is to ensure skill and good sportsmanship remain at the core of competition. While pickleball is a relative newcomer to the sports world, its values and rules are much the same, honoring fairness and respect while promoting skill, integrity, and fun.
With no line judges to call the shots, pickleball relies solely on self-officiating, which usually works remarkably well. However, as in any sport, disputes can arise. A ball called out by the opponents may have looked clearly “in” to the other team. So, who has the final say on this and other points of play? The 2026 USA Pickleball Official Rulebook provides clear guidance and is available for download at usapickleball.org/rules.
While rules are essential, etiquette is an even larger component of the game. Some worry that pickleball has become “elitist” and that fun has taken a back seat, sidelined by some players being overly focused on competitive play.
Thankfully, that’s not our experience in SaddleBrooke! Our club prides itself on balancing social and competitive play at every level. Laughter fills the courts during social play, and competitive play remains an integral part of our mission. We strive to meet all needs!
A few notes on etiquette:
Most of us are of a similar age, so forgetting the score or who served last is not a big deal. We don’t criticize but, rather, help one another figure it out! Some of us may be awaiting cataract surgery, so occasional bad line calls are forgiven. We’re not perfect. We’re all out to have fun, and here are some tips to ensure everyone leaves the courts happy:
• Introduce yourself to a new partner. Wearing a name tag is always helpful. Ask which side he/she would prefer.
• Encourage your partner. Celebrate great shots, and after an unforced error, offer, “Right place to aim for” or “Good try!”
• Focus more on your own play. Do your best, no matter who is your partner and how well they are playing. Be willing to partner with players at a lower level, since we have all been there.
• If it appears that your partner has hit an “out” ball, offer that opinion only if he/she asks.
• Be mindful of lobbing and poaching. They have their place, but overdoing it can lead to more tension than points.
• Win or lose, always thank your partner and opponents at the net. If you lose, congratulate your opponents. A smile goes a long way.